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He explained that a by-census differed from a census in that the former did not a complete head count of the population, but collected detailed information on the population from a sample, based on which the size and the characteristics of the entire population were estimated.
It differs from other sample surveys in that it has a much larger sample size, so that it can provide reliable population data on small geographical areas for local planning, and data on population sub-groups for the planning of government services for such groups.
About one-seventh of all quarters in Hong Kong have been selected according to a probability sampling scheme for enumerating all households living therein.
During the by-census operation period, enumerators will visit such households and the household members will be asked about their particulars, including year and month of birth, sex, place of birth, marital status, language, nationality, educational attainment, place of study/work, employment details, income, household rent and previous residence.
The 1996 Population By-census would be largeted at the entire population of Hong Kong, including the land population and the marine population, said Mr Ho, adding that persons living in special types of quarters such as infirmaries and penal institutions would also be covered.
The Census and Statistics Department has despatched letters informing all sampled households of the visiting enumerator's name.
During the visit, each enumerator will identify himself/herself with a Census Officer Certificate of Identity issued by the department. If in doubt, households can verify the enumerator's identity on 2590 8000.
The visits will usually be carried out from 10 am to 10 pm on weekdays and from 9 am to 10 pm on Saturdays and Sundays during the nine-day operation period.
"This large scale project is estimated to cost $185 million," Mr Ho said.
The 1996 Population By-census is conducted under the provisions of Section 9 of the Census and Statistics Ordinance. Under this Ordinance, persons specified to give information are obliged to do so.